Clifford C. Copp, Tax Evasion, Kansas 2001

Kansas City trucking company owner Clifford C. Copp, 47, of Overland Park, Kan., has pleaded guilty to evading federal income taxes. Copp, the former owner of Copp Trucking Co. in Kansas City, Kan., admitted to filing false reports to the Internal Revenue Service in 2001, claiming his company owed approximately $939,408 in employment taxes for that year. However, the company did not pay the employment taxes due.

When the IRS assessed trust fund recovery penalties of $669,037 in February 2004, Copp concealed income and formed Wildcat Limo, LLC, to hide his assets, including livestock, life insurance, and farm equipment. He filed a false statement to the IRS, concealing his ownership interest in these assets.

Copp's actions have led to a federal charge of tax evasion, with a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison, restitution, and a fine up to $250,000. Sentencing will be set for a later time.

U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom commended the Internal Revenue Service and Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Oakley for their work on the case. The IRS has been actively pursuing Copp for his tax evasion, and their efforts have led to his guilty plea.

Copp's case highlights the importance of paying employment taxes and the consequences of tax evasion. The IRS takes tax evasion seriously and will continue to pursue individuals and companies who fail to pay their taxes.

Copp's guilty plea is a significant step in holding him accountable for his actions. The court will now determine the sentence he will face, and he will be required to pay restitution and a fine if convicted.

The case against Copp serves as a reminder to businesses and individuals to prioritize tax compliance and avoid any actions that could be considered tax evasion.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ks/pr/former-trucking-company-owner-pleads-guilty-federal-tax-evasion